WHEREAS, Michael J. Rao, a Senior Trooper with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, was killed as a result of injuries sustained while he was assisting motorists on I-95 in Clarendon County, South Carolina; and

WHEREAS, Michael J. Rao was a law enforcement officer who died in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, Michael J. Rao dedicated his career to protecting the citizens of the State of South Carolina.

NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as Governor, pursuant to the Constitution and Laws of the State of South Carolina, I hereby order that the flags of the United States and the State of South Carolina be flown at half-staff upon all state buildings and grounds on Sunday, June 16, 2002 in tribute to Michael J. Rao.